The skull

Jon Klassen

In a big abandoned house, on a barren hill, lives a skull. A brave girl named Otilla has escaped from terrible danger and run away, and when she finds herself lost in the dark forest, the lonely house beckons. Her host, the skull, is afraid of something too, something that comes every night. Can brave Otilla save them both?

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Description

A #1 New York Times bestseller!

“Reading this, I accidentally rediscovered the power of a good story.”
Frank Cottrell-Boyce, Waterstones Children’s Laureate 2024-2026

From Jon Klassen, Caldecott Medalist and bestselling creator of This Is Not My Hat, comes a wonderfully eerie yet gentle Halloween story perfect for ages 6-9.

On a dark night, a girl named Otilla stumbles across a lonely, abandoned house deep in the forest. Inside waits a skull – who has a secret of its own. Together, they face the shadows that arrive each night… and discover the strength that comes from courage and kindness.

With Klassen’s signature dry humour, hauntingly beautiful illustrations and a touch of deliciously spooky fun, The Skull is ideal for kids who like their stories mysterious but not too scary. Parents can feel reassured: while this gothic folktale has a shiver of creepiness, it ends with strength, empowerment and a reminder that even the strangest friendships can be the most comforting.

Perfect for:
– Independent readers ages 6-9
– Families looking for a suspenseful but not-too-scary read-aloud
– Fans of spooky folktales with a twist of wit and charm

“A mysterious, exquisitely presented gothic tale.” Sunday Times

Haunting and charming. A dark, delectable adventure.” Daily Telegraph

“Strange and deliciously creepy, this is the perfect read for children who like something a bit different.” Irish independent ‘The Best Spooky and Sweet Autumn Reads for Children

Additional information

Weight 0.4 kg
Dimensions 20.6 × 15.4 × 2 cm
Author

Publisher

Imprint

Cover

Hardback

Pages

105

Language

English

Edition

Hardback original

Dewey

813.6 (edition:23)

Readership

General – Trade / Code: K